MATH TALK

This episode features Ben Spellman, owner of Good Vibes Movement — a conversation centered around wellness, mindfulness, movement, and building stronger communities through connection. ❤️Ben shares the inspiring story behind Good Vibes Movement and what it truly means to “spread love and build community” throughout the Des Moines area. From creating safe spaces for people to connect, to promoting...

In this inspiring episode of Do The Math 247 “Math Talk” Podcast, we highlight the journey of young entrepreneur sisters Abby and Gabby who are chasing big dreams while being supported every step of the way by one important person — Mom. This conversation dives into the realities of balancing middle school life, extracurricular activities, friendships, and entrepreneurship, while also exploring th...

In this powerful and purpose-driven episode, we sit down with the team behind Change Course, a career and personal development program in Des Moines, IA that is helping individuals rewrite their stories and reclaim their futures. This conversation dives deep into the “why” behind Change Course — a program created to break cycles of poverty, addiction, and homelessness by providing more than just r...

In this powerful and informative episode, we sit down with Alzheimer's Association Iowa Chapter leaders Keesha Ward, Director of Development, and Erica Eikren, Program Manager, to explore dementia beyond the diagnosis. This conversation highlights why understanding brain health is essential and why early awareness can change lives. We unpack the early warning signs of dementia that often go un...

What happens when a teacher becomes someone students don’t outgrow? This thought-provoking episode centers on Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter and asks a powerful question: How do you measure the impact of a teacher whose influence lasts long after the class roster changes? Through a parent’s heartfelt reflections and her children, some of them now students navigating high school, we reflect on the lasti...

In this impactful and heartwarming conversation, Breanne Ward, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Founder of ForWard Consulting, shares her expertise on guiding emotional wellness, building awareness, and supporting youth through every phase of growth. Breanne shares what first inspired her to pursue a career in mental health counseling and trauma-focused care — and how that passion led her to l...

In this inspiring episode of Do The Math 247 "Math Talk", I sit down with Renee Welk — a seasoned mentor, coach, and author with over three decades of experience helping people navigate growth, change, and self-discovery. Renee shares how her lifelong passion for guiding others led her to write "Ease the Chaos", a book that blends real stories, wisdom, and practical tools for f...

In this inspiring Do The Math 247 "Math Talk" episode, we sit down with the founder of Divergent Family,  Demitry Lasu, a brand built on the bold message: “Be Different. Act Together.” Through heartfelt reflections and stories—like the journey from Egypt to Louisville, KY, and ultimately Des Moines, IA—listeners see how Divergent Family’s message, Be Different. Act Together., transforms...

🌟 What does parent power really look like inside a school? Behind every bake sale, fun fair, and fundraiser is something much bigger—a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) working tirelessly to shape the culture of a school. But it’s not just about raising money or organizing events—it’s about building a stronger community where every parent feels welcome, every voice is heard, and every student ben...

Summary: In this moving Do The Math 247 "Math Talk" episode, Ramona Bates, Early Childhood Educator & Community Advocate reflects on what made the John R. Grubb YMCA more than just a gym—it was a lifeline, a safe space, and a source of strength for so many. Ramona shares how "The Grubb" YMCA evolved over the years, not just in programs, but in purpose. Ramona reminds us tha...

In this inspiring episode of Do The Math 247 "Math Talk" Podcast, we sit down with Ames native and experiential producer Kaleb Stevens, the show manager behind the "Middle of NOWhere Festival (MONFest)". Kaleb shares his personal journey—from humble beginnings producing basement dance battles, high school open mics, and art shows to curating immersive events that celebrate music, poetry, and cultu...

In this episode of Do The Math 247 "Math Talk", we sit down with Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter and students from Hiatt Middle School to reflect on a year of powerful growth in both reading and character. The students share their personal journeys—how they improved as readers, developed stronger values, and plan to keep the momentum going through summer with the bold commitment of “No Summers...

What happens when young women are seen, heard, and believed in? In this Do The Math 247 "Math Talk" podcast episode, we unpack the impact of Project Bridging — a program transforming at-risk young women into confident changemakers through mentorship, identity, and community. Patricia Barbee, Executive Director of Project Bridging and 2025 Girls Scouts of Central Iowa Character Award Recipient, sha...

What does it take to truly support a student beyond the classroom? In this new podcast episode of "Math Talk", we explore the essential yet often unseen role of a Community School Coordinator—a bridge between schools, families, and the local community. Our guest Taylor shares the importance of creating strong school-community relationships, highlights key moments from the school year, and reveals...

From the fast-paced world of mainstream news to the transformative power of documentary filmmaking, Emmy Award-winning journalist and filmmaker Nik Heftman has dedicated his career to telling impactful stories. Formerly with CBS News, Nik is now the driving force behind The Seven Times, a platform committed to uplifting Black-owned businesses.

New "Math Talk" podcast episode is out! Join us for this engaging discussion as Taste of the Junction founder Rachelle Long reflects on the importance of preserving Valley Junction's (West Des Moines, Iowa) rich history and passion for community & culture, turned into a tradition that continues to inspire and unite. It’s a conversation about heritage (John E. Long Jr. and Barbara Long Honorary...

In this new "Math Talk" podcast episode, we uncover the powerful true story of Brickz Legacy with it's founder, Peter Ngo. From Brickz Legacy's roots in the culturally rich Oakridge Neighborhood, Peter shares how his journey of faith, community, and resilience shaped a mentoring program that empowers the youth through basketball. From the basketball court in the Oakridge Neighborhood to the NBA G...

Ever wonder how yoga can transform a child’s day at school? In this new "Math Talk" Podcast episode meet Kimberley Jackman, a trailblazing yoga instructor bringing mindfulness, movement, and resilience to elementary classrooms. Kimberley, owner of Firefly Wellness is a Community Partner with the Des Moines Public Schools District and Ankeny Community Schools District. In this upcoming episode, we...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Starts Right Here founder Will Keeps, a passionate youth advocate who has dedicated his life to empowering at-risk teens in our community. From overcoming his own struggles growing up in challenging circumstances to becoming a beacon of hope for others, Will shares his deeply personal journey. Discover how Will turned adversity into a mission, creating i...

Join us for a thought-provoking journey as we sit down with a passionate community advocate in our latest MATH TALK podcast episode. The Power of Grassroots Movements, Jean Minahan discusses how local efforts can create ripples of change on a larger scale. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation that promises to ignite your own passion for making a difference!

In this MATH TALK Podcast episode, join us as Ms. Carter, a seasoned Reading Interventionist, takes us through her enriching journey in the realm of literacy education. Delving into her role, Ms. Carter sheds light on the crucial interventions and strategies she employs to nurture a love for reading among students. Reflecting on the highlights of the school year, she shares inspiring anecdotes of...

Podcast episode with Loretta Terrell! It was great catching up, learning more about her businesses  @sistasoulfest  and her story. What a great time we had during our talk! Thank you Loretta!! www.sistasoulfest.com  Facebook and Instagram:sistasoulfestEmail address  sistasoulfest2020@gmail.com

Tune in as we embark on an enlightening journey of discovery, where mathematics serves as our guide to building a more equitable and compassionate world for all. Welcome to "Math Talk. In the debut episode, Kenny dives deeply into the Math Talk principles with a special guest, Norris, the visionary behind the "Bettering Youth Organization." Norris has dedicated his life to uncoverin...